Leaders Condemn Vandalism at BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York
Washington DC [US], September 18: Lori Trahan, leader of Massachusetts’ Third District, condemned the desecration of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York. She stated that this act goes against the American values of respecting everyone’s right to practice their religion freely. Trahan emphasized the need to condemn all forms of hatred.
Earlier, the Consulate General of India in New York also condemned the vandalism. They stated that the act is unacceptable and that they are in touch with the community and U.S. law enforcement for prompt action against the perpetrators.
BAPS expressed deep sadness over the incident, describing it as an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. They mentioned that local, state, and federal leaders gathered to promote peace, respect, and unity, standing united against hate with compassion and solidarity.
Several US lawmakers, including Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar, condemned the desecration and demanded accountability. Thanedar called the act hideous and stressed the need for a full investigation to provide the BAPS community with answers and justice.
Doubts Revealed
Vandalism -: Vandalism means damaging or destroying someone else’s property on purpose. It’s like when someone breaks or writes on things that don’t belong to them.
BAPS Swaminarayan Temple -: BAPS Swaminarayan Temple is a place where people who follow the Swaminarayan faith, a part of Hinduism, go to pray and worship.
Lori Trahan -: Lori Trahan is a leader from Massachusetts, a state in the USA. She works in the government to help make laws and decisions.
Desecration -: Desecration means treating a sacred place or thing with disrespect. It’s like being very rude to something that is very important to others.
Religious freedom -: Religious freedom means that people can choose and practice their own religion without being bothered or stopped by others.
Consulate General of India -: The Consulate General of India is an office in another country that helps Indian citizens and represents India. It’s like a mini-India office in a foreign place.
Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar -: Shri Thanedar is a person of Indian origin who works in the US government. He helps make laws and represents people in his area.
Thorough investigation -: A thorough investigation means looking very carefully into what happened to find out all the details and who is responsible.
US lawmakers -: US lawmakers are people who make laws in the United States. They work in the government to create rules for everyone to follow.
Accountability -: Accountability means being responsible for your actions and facing the consequences if you do something wrong.
Hate and violence -: Hate and violence mean being very mean and hurting others, either with words or actions. It’s when people are not kind and cause harm.
